What is a dermatologic surgeon?

Part of a progressive medical subspecialty, ASDS member dermatologists perform medically necessary and cosmetic procedures to improve the health, function and beauty of skin through every stage of life.

From forehead furrows to frown lines…

Performing more than 5 million cosmetic procedures each year, ASDS member dermatologists offer many treatments that are less intense, safer and have quicker recovery times than ever before.

1.5 million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every year

Any suspicious new growths or changes should be examined by a dermatologist immediately. ASDS member dermatologists are trained to select the best treatment choice based on the individual patient.

Scars

Treatment Options

Scars can be emotionally devastating for many people, leading to mental and emotional complications. Scars can be disfiguring and aesthetically unpleasant. Side effects of scarring may include:

Severe itching

Tenderness

Pain

Sleep disturbances

Anxiety and/or depression

Disruption of daily activities

Scars also may result in development of post-traumatic stress reactions, loss of self-esteem and being stigmatized, leading to diminished quality of life. Physical deformity as a result of skin scar contractures also can be functionally disabling.

What you need to know about scars

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after an injury. The scar’s appearance and its treatment depend on multiple factors, including the depth and size of the wound, its location, and the age, sex, ethnicity and genetics of the patient.
These are several different types of scars, including:

Keloid scars: Resulting from an overly aggressive healing process, these scars extend beyond the site of the original injury. They may hamper movement. They are most common among people with dark skin.

Contracture scars: These scars form on burned skin. As they tighten, they can impair movement. Scarring also goes deeper, affecting muscles and nerves.

Hypertrophic scars: These are raised, red scars that are similar to keloids but do not go beyond the boundary of the injury.

Acne scars: Scars can range from deep pits to those that are angular or wavelike in appearance.

Do's and don'ts

How you treat wounded skin can go a long way in preventing excessive scarring.

Do...

Treat wounds promptly.Maintain constant pressure on wounds with special bandages or special silicone sheeting. This will help flatten any resultant scarring.Gently massage the scarred area once it is healed. Massaging helps break down the dense bands of collagen from forming in underlying tissue.Consider scar therapy for older scars, and for scarring that causes you physical or emotional pain.

Don't...

Ignore a scar that becomes raised, itchy or red, which could be a sign of infection.

ASDS is recognized as the premier specialty group representing dermatologists performing all procedures – cosmetic, general, reconstructive and Mohs. ASDS members are experts in treating skin and soft tissue with surgical and non-surgical methods.